Ukraine/ 5.3 Sector specific legislation  

5.3.6 Film, video and photography

The Ukrainian legislative base concerning the film industry is based on ca. 50 laws and by-laws. The Law on Cinematography regulates all film productions regardless of the legal / ownership status of individual film companies.

There are 5 state-run film studios in Ukraine. On the basis of the Law on the Privatisation of State Property (1992), most cinemas are now privatised or run by communities. In 2011, according to data of the newly established State Film Agency, more than 350 modern cinema theatres functioned in Ukraine; gross revenue from film showings increased in 2011 by 25% and the number of spectators by 15% comparing to 2010.

In 2007, the State Film Service prepared the draft "Concept of the State Programme for National Film Industry Development for 2008-2012" as well as:

• the draft Government Resolution on Budget Support to Film Production, Distribution and Exhibition; and
• draft Laws on Creating Favourable Conditions for National Film Industry Development, on Funds for the Development of National Cinematography, other norms, rules and recommendations.

On 18 February 2010, the Parliament of Ukraine approved the amendments to the Law on Cinematography, by which the government will establish a special account to support national cinematography, which will accumulate funds for film industry development.

According to the 2013 Budget, the funding of the State Film Agency, responsible for the development of the Ukrainian film industry, will be decreased by more than UAH 20 million, from UAH 178.5 million in 2012 to UAH 157.6 million. The decrease will also impact on the state programme "Creation and Distribution of National Films" – from UAH 167.5 million in 2012 to UAH 141.4 million in 2013. Leading film-makers and film critics of Ukraine addressed an open letter to the President of Ukraine asking him for his support.

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